In the history of cycling, downtube shifters are already seen as a relic of the olden times, which would show how cumbersome some modern cyclists want their bicycles to be. Despite the fact that these shifters have been rendered almost obsolete by newer and more user-friendly systems installed in the handlebars, there is still a section of cyclists who love the imaginary cable and downtube shifters. One of the important parts that come in handy when one is maintaining or improving a bike that has downtube shifters is the cable stop for downtube shifters.
In this article, we would take a closer look at downtube shifter cable stops – what they are, their function, installation and how they work in the entire system of a downtube shift equipped road bike.
What Are Downtube Shifters?
Downtube shifters, embedded in the frame of a bicycle on the downtube, are lever mechanisms used for gear changes. This type of levers existed on the handlebars of road bikes until recently in the invasion of integrated brake-shifters in the late 1980s. By means of these shifters cable tension is either pulled or released to operate the derailleurs and change the gear.
Despite the fact that downtube shifters are now mainly out of usage, them being mainly because of more convenient shifter designs, they have remained popular amongst the vintage cycle lovers. There is a very simple way of shifting, however all the cogs and levers in this case will be much simpler, and thus the service will be less frequent.
One of the key components in keeping downtube shifters functional on modern frames is the downtube shifter cable stop.
The Role of Downtube Shifter Cable Stops
The shifter cable’s inertia housing termination is the downtube shifter cable stop. It prevents slack as the cable points toward the derailleur, ensuring that optimally, into the shifter housing, gear changes can be executed.
In the case of downtube, shifters are used, a cylindrical cable runs from the shifter located at the downtube of the frame, to the front, and back derailleurs. Cable stops keep the housing positioned at certain locations on the frame and therefore allow only the inner to move while shifting with very low friction.
In modern shaped bikes, for example, those without downtube shifters, the downtube may still have cable stops for the handlebar shifters. These are necessary to control the cable drag and also allow the derailleur to shift the chain correctly, in and out of the gears.
Types of Downtube Shifter Cable Stops
There are two primary varieties of downtube shifter cable stops, namely;
Braze-on Cable Stops: These are modified to stick on the bike frame in the factory and in the frame, designed for industrial purposes. This means that one can easily switch to downtube shifters from modern setups, thanks to the many vintage road bikes with these stops.
Clamp-on Cable Stops: For bikes without braze-ons, clamp-on stops may be purchased instead: these are attached around the downtube with a clamp, so that the shifters may be fitted or the cable routing upgraded without any alteration of the frame itself.
In both cases, the cable housing remains secured and acts as intended with regards to the shifter cables.
Benefits of Using Downtube Shifter Cable Stops
Despite advanced bike designs with improved gear changing mechanisms, there are still fundamental reasons cyclists go for downtube shifters and cable stops.
Ease: When it comes to maintenance, a downtube shifter system is less complicated and extensive than an indexed system making it easier to maintain. With less components, there are less chances of breaking down.
Decrease In Weight: Downtube shifters and cable stops minimize the weight of the entire shifting mechanism as compared to combined shifters that are fixed to the handlebars.
Sam’s Combo: Cyclists and motorcycle riders who are fancied by vintage bicycles tend to like more a simple looking bike with downtube shifters and nicely positioned cable stops than any other without these fittings. These setups add to the classic look that these bikes were built with steel frames.
Direct Cable Routing: Cable stops help in such a way that from the shifter to the derailleur, the cable takes the most appropriate path thus reducing friction and the length of cable housing improving shifting performance.
Installation of Downtube Shifter Cable Stops
On a bicycle fitted with downtube shift levers, cable brakes installation is not a difficult process. In case your bike is bult with braze-on stops all you have to do is to fix the shifters using screws provided and pass the cables through the stops.
For those bikes that come without braze-ons, a clamp-on cable stop is an option available. They are mostly fixed onto the downtube using a small clamp. After fixing the stops, a shifter cable housing is run from the stop to the derailleur such that the cable is free but not too tight or too loose.
These are The Basic Steps in Installing Downtube Shifters and Cable Stops.
Mount The Downtube Shifters In case of braze ons, insert screws on the shifters and insert in the frame of the bike. Worry not if this is absent, utilize a clamp on shifter assembly.
Run the Cable: At the downtube cable stop, fix the cable housing, and insert the inner cable past it into the derailleur.
Adjust Cable Tension: Fine adjustments of cable tension can be done using barrel adjusters in order to facilitate smooth gear shifting. Put the system to test by shifting gears and observe any hesitations or difficulties in the process.
Maintenance and Adjustments
Primarily, Davout and her cable tidies are low maintenance components and their maintenance is one of the main advantages of this shifter type. On the contrary, the cables must be clean and well lubricated in order to function effectively. Also, the performance of the shifting system will be maintained in its optimum state if attention is paid to the tautness of the cables and the integrity of the cable housing.
With regard to indexed shifters, the situation is more complex as improper assembly leads to greater risk of missed shifts. In contrast, downtube set ups will most often use friction shifters which allow a greater degree of leeway and do not require such careful adjustments.
Transitioning from Downtube Shifters to Modern Systems
Cyclists who are fond of the straightforward downtube shifters but look forward to venturing into the present lubricated shifting systems, the restoration of the existing drivetrain should be taken into account. Certain advanced shifters can be used alongside ancient derailleur components; however, some may come with extra parts or modifications that will not manage to make it work.
Many, though not all, riders who tend to move away from downtube shifters and gear change mechanisms are used to standard downtube cable stops during the upgrading process. These stops enable the use of handlebar-mounted shifters while keeping the cable routing clean. This however, does not restrict riders from fully embracing the modern systems as most of the bike’s old looks remains intact.
Conclusion
While it is true that downtube shifters are no longer the default option for modern bicycles, they still provide a certain degree of comfort and genuine fondness for those who value simplicity, dependability, and a retro look. The downtube shifter cable stop is essential in allowing for the shifting of downtube gears because it manages the cable housing and helps to reduce friction. Be it for the revival of an old bike, or just taking care of some maintenance on a vintage road machine, learning how to install and maintain the cable stops will ensure that your downtube shifters will work for a long time – safe and sound.
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